Character of Space.

A film set is a character in its own right. Human characters are interesting when shown in conflict. That conflict reveals their true nature. A set or place can be developed in the same way. Through conflict and change the character of space is revealed. The production designers role is to control that reveal in relation to the story and the qualities the story holds.

Think back to the apartment in Luc Besson's 'The Professional' or 'Leon'(the French Title). The stark whiteness, clean, minimal lines, anywhereness of this environment does nothing to reveal its nature or that of Leon its quiet inhabitant. As the story develops the apartment becomes not only the setting for the film but a character in it's own right. The building helps bring Leon and Mathilda together. The building is a protector. Later the building is integral to Leon defending himself and getting Mathilda to safety. The building is not only his castle it is also his companion and comrade. In the end Leon sacrifices his life just as the building too is destroyed. It is unimaginable that this space could continue to exist without it's friend.

For a space to hold then reveal such qualities slowly and intimately takes great design.